La Segunda Central Bakery is a Cuban bakery located in a somewhat isolated spot in Tampa. It is over 100 years old and a gem just like the Columbia Restaurant. It is right next to the underpass of 275 and it was probably there before 275 was built and the creation of the highway is likely what isolated it. The reason l mention this is because in spite of its location this small bakery thrives and leaves you with a connection to the past. I went there for the first time last Sunday. I heard about them and started following on Facebook. I decided last weekend it was time to try it. They are famous for their Cuban sandwiches and they are famous for their cinnamon buns along with their pastries. I went in the early afternoon but the place was still bustling. People were walking out with giant Cuban loaves of bread. I can only imagine that these people were buying bread like in the old days for their Sunday family dinners. When l went inside and got a look, the pastry cabinet hits you in the face. It is loaded with all kinds of desserts, some that were unique, but they were all presented well and looked so appealing. I waited my turn and tried to get a feel for the place and choose what l wanted so l wouldn't slow up the show. I originally wanted a custom breakfast sandwich that l heard about but then l saw their Cuban and l couldn't decide which one to choose. Then an idea came to me and I was happy it did. I decided to get a Cuban but with egg on it like a breakfast sandwich. While l was thrilled about thinking of that, l also wanted to try the cinnamon buns. When it was my turn to order the first thing l noticed about all the people that worked there was that they were very friendly. They were all hustling around but they were very pleasant to the customers and they had a good attitude. They all worked as a team and kept the process rolling. The woman who took my order was just that. I told her about my Cuban sandwich with egg and she was okay with rhat. Then l got the cinnamon bun. Then l went crazy and got 3 other pastries that l liked. I could have chosen more but l decided to save it for another time. I like to experiment so l got one of their pineapple sodas and cashed out. When the stuff came out in pueces, the lady at pickup was very nice and would call my name for each thing and wish me a good day. When l got my things, you can't eat inside, so l went out to my car. I opened my Cuban with egg and I was amazed. They put a giant thick scrambled egg on there that was the just the right size of the Cuban bread. They did not skimp at all or use those fake flat egg patties. It made the sandwich great. The egg complimented the Cuban or l should say they complimented each other. The pork in the Cuban was shredded and so moist, not dry, and it was flavored nicely. The pickles and mustard added flavor to the meats and bread. I love egg sandwiches and this idea was fantastic. I had the cinnamon bun later and that was very good to. It was nice and light, not heavy, and it wasn't airey either . Their recipe was spot on. I had the other 3 pastries another day with someone else and we both loved them. They also present everything nicely whether it's in a box, or a sandwich wrapped with a sticker on it. Not many places last as long as they have, but l can understand why this place is a success and a tradition in the Tampa area. These folks have a great formula for success and they back it up with fantastic food and pleasant service. It's a tribute to tradition and quality. I will definitely...
Read moreAll around disappointed. From the moment I saw the menu, I should have just turned around. I do have some high opinions, but these are valid. 1). My Cafe con Leche does not come with sugar I had to sugar myself. a) if I wanted to do the mixing myself I would not pay 6.00 for the coffee. b) I agree there are people that don't want to sugar.... But some people don't want salt on their fries. McDonalds has not stopped salting fries because of the non salters. c) sugar mixes better with the heated milk before adding the coffee. Soooo much so that you would probably use less sugar to get the same taste than having to add packets where most of the sugar settles to the bottom. d). I sincerely challenge you to make a small cafe con Leche with sugar added into the milk prior to mixing together when it's really hot, and taking a cafe con Leche add no sugar, let sit for 20-30 seconds the. Add the same amount of packets.
I dare you to try it .... There is no way you could say it tastes the same. (Well only if you got your taste buds damaged from COVID, then it doesn't matter what you drink anyway. Yesterday's stale coffee microwave probably tastes the same to you as a fresh cup).
3). The last disappointment. I ordered a small coffee and a large. They charged and gave me a small, medium and a large. It took so long to get my order out. When I didn't order the medium, I was out of time. It took about 18 minutes to get in and out (remember there was only 1 other person when we arrived). The coffee was actually the last thing ready. Others were given their coffee before me.... I had no time to discuss and even wait for a potential refund.
I know one thing. I will not go back and encourage anyone that wants a good Cuban cafe food experience, La Segunda is clearly not the place.
La Caridad Bakery on Hillsborough Ave has been amazing and best value. La Morena bakery is good, borderline expensive and conpeting to make more people happy while fighting to maintain traditional Cuban vibe and taste. So far they...
Read moreIf you're a bread enthusiast in Ybor City, look no further than La Segunda Bakery. Nestled in the heart of the city, this charming bakery has garnered a well-deserved reputation for its delicious assortment of baked goods and, most notably, its mouthwatering La Patrinostro sandwich.
First and foremost, let's talk about the star of the show: the La Patrinostro sandwich. Prepare your taste buds for a flavor explosion! This delectable creation features layers of succulent salami, ham, Swiss cheese, tomatoes, shredded lettuce ,oil & vinegar and their signature freshly baked Cuban bread. Each bite delivers a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving for more. The combination of tender, juicy meat, tangy pickles, and the slight crunch of the bread is simply divine. La Patrinostro sandwich is a must-try for any sandwich aficionado visiting La Segunda Bakery.
Beyond their sensational sandwich, La Segunda Bakery takes pride in their large loaves of fresh bread. Step inside the bakery, and you'll be greeted by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through the air. Whether you're in search of a traditional French baguette, a hearty sourdough, or their famous Cuban bread, you'll find an extensive selection of bread varieties to suit every preference. The loaves are baked to perfection—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside—making them an ideal accompaniment to any meal or a delightful treat on their own.
As you explore the bakery further, you'll be delighted by the wide array of baked goods on offer. From flaky pastries to decadent cakes, La Segunda Bakery has something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Their assortment includes traditional Spanish pastries like empanadas and guava pastries, as well as American favorites such as muffins and cookies. Each item is crafted with care, using high-quality ingredients, resulting in an irresistible medley of flavors and textures.
Apart from the delectable offerings, La Segunda Bakery also boasts a warm and inviting ambiance. The staff members are friendly, knowledgeable, and always ready to assist you in choosing the perfect treat. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite on the go or looking to linger and savor the flavors, the bakery provides a cozy space to enjoy your food and soak in the delightful atmosphere.
In conclusion, La Segunda Bakery is a true gem for bread lovers and pastry enthusiasts alike. With its sensational La Patrinostro sandwich, large loaves of fresh bread, and a vast assortment of delectable baked goods, this Tampa bakery has undoubtedly earned its place in the hearts—and stomachs—of locals and visitors alike. So, if you find yourself in Tampa, make sure to make a stop at La Segunda Bakery and treat yourself to their...
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